Model checking Quantitative Linear Time Logic

This paper considers QLtl, a quantitative analagon of Ltl and presents algorithms for model checking QLtl over quantitative versions of Kripke structures and Markov chains

Linear and Branching System Metrics

We extend the classical system relations of trace\ud inclusion, trace equivalence, simulation, and bisimulation to a quantitative setting in which propositions are interpreted not as boolean values, but as elements of arbitrary metric spaces.\ud \ud Trace inclusion and equivalence give rise to asymmetrical and symmetrical linear distances, while simulation and bisimulation give rise to asymmetrical and symmetrical branching distances. We study the relationships among these distances, and we provide a full logical characterization of the distances in terms of quantitative versions of LTL and μ-calculus. We show that, while trace inclusion (resp. equivalence) coincides with simulation (resp. bisimulation) for deterministic boolean transition systems, linear\ud and branching distances do not coincide for deterministic metric transition systems. Finally, we provide algorithms for computing the distances over finite systems, together with a matching lower complexity bound

Partial Preferences for Mediated Bargaining

In this work we generalize standard Decision Theory by assuming that two outcomes can also be incomparable. Two motivating scenarios show how incomparability may be helpful to represent those situations where, due to lack of information, the decision maker would like to maintain different options alive and defer the final decision. In particular, a new axiomatization is given which turns out to be a weakening of the classical set of axioms used in Decision Theory. Preliminary results show how preferences involving complex distributions are related to judgments on single alternatives.Comment: In Proceedings SR 2014, arXiv:1404.041

Irrelevant matches in round-robin tournaments

AbstractWe consider tournaments played by a set of players in order to establish a ranking among them. We introduce the notion of irrelevant match, as a match that does not influence the ultimate ranking of the involved parties. After discussing the basic properties of this notion, we seek out tournaments that have no irrelevant matches, focusing on the class of tournaments where each player challenges each other exactly once. We prove that tournaments with a static schedule and at least five players always include irrelevant matches. Conversely, dynamic schedules for an arbitrary number of players can be devised that avoid irrelevant matches, at least for one of the players involved in each match. Finally, we prove by computational means that there exist tournaments where all matches are relevant to both players, at least up to eight players

The carmine maggiore bell tower: An inclusive and sustainable restoration experience

The preservation of cultural heritage needs a restoration design format that can only be achievable by an in-depth multidisciplinary approach. Besides, a sustainable project requires that the link between architecture and technology be expressed through a “conscious” approach to the building. Therefore, each design must be based on the in-depth knowledge of history, construction rules, and mechanical properties of buildings to be restored. The bell towers are among the most exposed to degradation and earthquake damage constructions for their intrinsic geometry and structure. The “Carmine Maggiore” bell tower is one of the most important symbols of Naples (Italy) and, at 72 m high, it has stood out for centuries against the city. The tower underwent many significant damages and structural changes over time. The design, here illustrated, was aimed at restoring and repairing this bell tower, preserving existing materials, without altering the signs of time. The paper shows the methodology followed in the project, which, starting from an in-depth historical analysis and a detailed geometric and diagnostic survey, through several structural analyses, allowed an “inclusive” project (restoration, structural, and lighting project) based on suitable solutions that meet all the requirements of compatibility, sustainability, and structural safety

Optimal control for evolutionary imperfect transmission problems

We study the optimal control problem of a second order linear evolution equation defined in two-component composites with e-periodic disconnected inclusions of size e in presence of a jump of the solution on the interface that varies according to a parameter γ. In particular here the case $\gamma<1$ is analyzed. The optimal control theory, introduced by Lions (Optimal Control of System Governed by Partial Differential Equations, 1971), leads us to characterize the control as the solution of a set of equations, called optimality conditions. The main result of this paper proves that the optimal control of the e-problem, which is the unique minimum point of a quadratic cost functional $J_{\varepsilon}$ , converges to the optimal control of the homogenized problem with respect to a suitable limit cost functional $J_{\infty}$ . The main difficulties are to find the appropriate limit functional for the control of the homogenized system and to identify the limit of the controls

Interface Behaviour in FRP Plates Bonded to Concrete: Experimental Tests and Theoretical Analyses

Simplified models for simulating FRP-to-concrete interface behavior are introduced and empirical relationships are utilized for their calibration. Moreover, the results of pull-out tests on FRP-to-concrete joints are presented. They are utilized in calibrating a bilinear shear-stress-to-interface-slip relationship by means of an inverse identification procedure

Retrofit assessment of masonry buildings through simplified structural analysis

The current seismic prevention strategy is based on a unitary approach aimed at a risk mitigation, also at territorial level. The Italian guidelines for the assessment and mitigation of seismic risk of cultural heritage provides indications for the seismic analysis of protected cultural heritage, with the aim of specifying a path of knowledge, assessing the level of safety and planning possible improvements. The Italian building heritage is very vast and heterogeneous and was devastated by earthquakes due to its high vulnerability; therefore, the seismic risk mitigation also requires the availability of simple and handy analysis tools. The aim of this paper is the illustration of an easy, although approximate, procedure for the evaluation of the seismic safety index and the optimization of strengthening interventions. The procedure is applied to buildings located in the province of Caserta. The analyses are performed with reference to two types of buildings that are particularly recurrent and representative of the building heritage of this area and placed in areas with different seismic hazard